Tuesday, September 24, 2013

The Importance of Encouraging Your Children Part 1

Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Two things stand out in this verse, and neither have to do with faithful church attendance, even though you should be faithful to join together with God's people corporately as often as you have the opportunity.  The first thing to consider is this ... First - how we can spur one another on toward love and good deeds, and second, how we encourage one another.  Spur one another on is another way of saying we need to encourage one another.  As I think about encouragement, here are some thoughts to consider:  (1) Everyone needs encouragement.  You need it.  I need it.  We all need it.  But what is it?  What is encouragement?  Well, according to the dictionary, encouragement is:  the act of giving hope or support to someone; also, an expression of approval and support.  So who can you give hope, support and approval to today?  Who in your life needs it?  That leads me to my second thought to consider about encouragement:  (2)  Nobody needs encouragement more from you than your family.  Moms/Dads - your spouse needs hope support, and approval from you today.  But as parents/grandparents, there's no one more important in your life that is in more need of encouragement FROM YOU (FROM ME) than your children/grandchildren.  How can you build them up?  How can you give them your approval?  How can you give them hope when things seem hopeless?  Well, let me encourage you to listen to Part 1 of a message from Dr. David Jeremiah (about 20 minutes or so) by clicking on the link below to begin finding answers to this very vital issue of encouraging your children.  As I was, I know you'll be challenged, convicted, and yes, ENCOURAGED.  Blessings,  John

http://www.focusonthefamily.com/radio.aspx?ID=%7B34461BCF-E8AB-4165-930B-E81659DC4F46%7D&utm_source=nl_dailybroadcast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=176703&refcd=176703

P.S. - Look for Part 2 of this message in tomorrow's blog.  If you are unable to click on the link above, just copy and paste it into your web browser.  Click "Listen Now" when the homepage for Focus on the Family comes up.  Enjoy.